Success Starts Here: SHU’s Seamless Transition from Undergrad to Grad School

Why did you decide to continue your education at SHU?

Bailey: The close bond I had formed with my professors led me to continue my graduate education at SHU. Most of the professors in my master’s program also taught me in undergrad. They all either have worked or currently work in the field and provide me with the knowledge and connections to the real world that will help me once I start working. My program was just a year and it aligned perfectly with my job plans and not only fulfilled the academic requirement to become a CPA, but the whole program was geared to mirror the exact topics on the CPA exam to ensure that I succeed.

Salley: I came to SHU knowing I would stay for my fifth year because of how its five-year program for education was set up. It is a convenient way for future teachers to get their master’s while getting great experience under their belt.

Springer: I loved my past four years here and have been impressed by the exercise science department and Center for Healthcare Education (CHE). It was never a question as to going anywhere else for graduate school; it has always been SHU!

Can you describe any benefits or advantages that you experienced transitioning from undergrad to grad at SHU?

Salley: A huge benefit I have found is the familiarity. I continued taking classes at West Campus, which I know quite well from my undergraduate classes, as well as taking courses with professors that I already knew. Some professors that I have now I had freshman year, so these are great relationships I was able to continue this year.

Sansanelli: I was extremely familiar with campus and the arrangement of faculty at every building. Going off of that, having deep connections with faculty going into my higher degree was an advantage in the sense that I knew how to approach their classes, and I could seek guidance and help through their knowledge and connections in the sports industry.

Springer: I have been consistently informed about upcoming events and opportunities within the graduate school community and through my specific program. Being familiar with campus was a huge factor when I was thinking about continuing education at SHU. Additionally, I have already met some of the professors that I will have at some point within the next three years, and I also have friends in the program. It is nice seeing them around in the CHE and seeing a glimpse of what they have done. It is exciting to know that I will be taking part in it all so soon! 

Do you feel that your previous coursework at SHU prepared you for the graduate-level coursework and research in your program?

Bailey: Yes, the coursework in undergrad prepared me for the course work in my graduate program. I was taught the fundamentals of accounting in my previous coursework, and I’m able to apply that knowledge to my extensive graduate research. Even the courses that don’t relate to my major assist me in my everyday learning. Previous courses at SHU have taught me time management, public speaking and teamwork, which are all imperative to success in the graduate programs at SHU.

Sansanelli: The master's degree builds upon the history and theory work that exists in the undergraduate major and then encourages more hands-on, live-event broadcast production opportunities. The SCM program prepares students to work in sports media at a high level, and the studio work blended with live production and editing courses efficiently achieve that.

Springer: I feel very prepared for the graduate level. The exercise science major creates a great foundation and understanding for what is to come at the graduate level. My classes have continuously kept me challenged and learning during all four years—students get right into exercise science content during freshman year. On top of classes, I have had clinical experiences, made connections with professionals in many different facets of the field, attended conferences and been exposed to all different kinds of practices in the exercise science profession.

What are some key factors you would suggest current SHU undergrad students consider while contemplating continuing in a graduate program at SHU?

Bailey: SHU’s proximity to NYC is key. With the city less than 90 minutes away, continuing your education here can score you a full-time job in NYC from the connections you will make. I would also recommend truly thinking about how they plan to make the most of their experience during their short time as a grad student. They should consider why they came to SHU in the first place. The academic and professional opportunities offered here are what sets SHU apart, and they should account for that when making their decision to continue their education at SHU. Finally, I suggest that students become graduate assistants. You can stay involved on campus while also getting assistance with your tuition.

Salley: Potential grad students should consider what their program will require of them outside of classes. Since my transition from undergrad to grad was so simple, I was able to put more time into my preparation for an internship and therefore my career.

Sansanelli: When I was considering graduate school, the most important question I asked myself was “Will this help me grow?” Ultimately the answer was yes—academically, socially and professionally. I knew continuing my education, especially with the unique opportunities the SCM program provides its students, was the right decision for me. I would also encourage students to think about how a secondary degree would elevate their intended career path and when the right time to pursue it would be.

Whatever your aspirations, Sacred Heart University has a graduate program to help you become the best version of yourself. Visit the graduate admissions webpage or email gradstudies@sacredheart.edu, to contact a member of the graduate admissions team and explore what SHU offers.

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